When you call Spokane, Washington, your home, you have countless downhill ski trails and cross-country tracks to explore. But when you have a long weekend ahead, you might want to get out of town and see something new. So what destinations should be at the top of your list? Take a look at 12 winter-ready weekend getaways and day trips near Spokane.
Fields Spring Sno-Park
The Washington State Park system operates 120 Sno-Parks across the state, including options for snowmobiles, tubing, and nonmotorized fun. Located about 135 miles south of Spokane in Fields Spring State Park, Fields Spring Sno-Park has some of the best snowshoeing and skating in southeastern Washington. While you’re here, enjoy the tubing hill and snow play area, too.
Flodelle/Tacoma Creek Sno-Park
For some of the best snowmobiling in Eastern Washington, head to Flodelle/Tacoma Creek Sno-Park. This park boasts 138 miles of snowmobile trails and has a convenient warming hut. If this popular park is too busy, get your fill of snowmobiling at one of the other two Sno-Parks in the Gillette Recreation Area.
Kootenai and Shoshone Counties Snowmobile Trails
The Idaho Panhandle National Forests are home to some seriously impressive snowmobiling, and the trails in Kootenai and Shoshone counties won’t disappoint. These groomed trails are a short drive from Coeur d’Alene, and they extend from the Idaho panhandle to the Canadian and Montana borders.
Priest Lake Trail System
Nestled in Priest Lake State Park in Idaho’s panhandle, this trail system boasts pristine snowmobiling conditions. The Priest Lake Trail System includes more than 400 miles of snowmobiling through snowy hills and gorgeous scenery. These groomed trails range from 2,500 to more than 7,000 feet in elevation, and you’ll find plenty of snowmobile-friendly businesses to visit along the way.
Lower Kootenai River Area
Just east of the Selkirk Mountains, the Lower Kootenai River Area is a hidden gem for outdoor recreation. When the area freezes over, you can go ice fishing or ice skating on one of the many scenic lakes or cross-country skiing along the snowy trails. This area also has thousands of acres of snowmobiling terrain, and you can even cut your own Christmas tree here.
Coeur d’Alene River Area
If you’ve lived in Spokane for long, then you’ve probably visited the Coeur d’Alene River Area for hiking or mountain biking during the warmer months. In the winter, however, this area becomes a popular destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Pack your skis or snowshoes, and head to the Mullan Road Historic Site for a day of wintertime fun.
Lookout Pass Ski and Recreation Area
Located about 90 miles east of Spokane, the Lookout Pass Ski and Recreation Area is one of the best weekend getaways in the heart of Lolo National Forest. Here you’ll find over 500 acres of terrain with nearly three dozen downhill ski runs covered in an annual average of 400 inches of snowfall. Downhill ski season begins in late November and ends in April, and this recreation area has terrain for skiers of every skill level.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort
If you’re looking for a luxurious place to visit near Spokane, set your sights on Schweitzer Mountain Resort, which is about 85 miles northeast of the city. Whether you visit for the day or stay for a week, this spot is worth the visit. As the largest ski area in Washington and Idaho, it has 92 ski runs and 2,900 acres of terrain.
After a day of testing your skills, hit the outdoor hot tubs and get some sleep at the mountain lodge. Schweitzer Mountain Resort also offers ski lessons and an eight-week ski program for kids.
Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park
Whether you’d rather ski or snowboard, Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park has you covered. This expansive park has 62 designated runs, multiple terrains for snowboarders, and 8 night skiing runs. If you’re just learning or want to improve your skills, you can also sign up for first-timer or advanced ski lessons here.
Silver Mountain Resort
Located a straight 70-mile drive east of Spokane, Silver Mountain Resort is your destination for a winter weekend getaway. With 67 ski runs, the resort has plenty of beginner and intermediate options. Yet with 40% of its runs dedicated to advanced and expert skiers, Silver Mountain Resort offers ample challenges, too. If you’re looking for more family-friendly activities, don’t miss the snow tube park.
Mount Kit Carson Trail
You don’t have to go far to enjoy some of the best snowshoeing and one of the most fun places to go in the Spokane area. Located in Mount Spokane State Park, Mount Kit Carson Trail is just 35 miles northeast of downtown.
Although it’s a popular destination for hiking and mountain biking in the warmer months, it’s just as enjoyable in the winter. Bring your snowshoes and hit the 5.5-mile trail, which culminates in a beautiful vista of the surrounding area.
Glacier National Park
When you plan your weekend trips this winter, add a celebrated outdoor destination like Kalispell, Montana, to your list. Be sure to spend at least a few days at Glacier National Park, which is home to legendary winter sports opportunities.
Head to the Apgar Village area or McDonald and Avalanche Creeks for some of the most scenic cross-country skiing and snowshoeing you’ll find anywhere. You can choose from short paths like Lower McDonald Creek or longer options like Apgar Lookout. If you’d rather explore the forests, head to Sacred Dancing Cascade for some of the most serene ski trails in the park. In the winter, you can also follow the unplowed portion of Going-to-the-Sun Road to capture stunning views of McDonald Creek and the entire Lake McDonald Valley.
Don’t forget to watch for wildlife during your visit. Glacier National Park is home to white-tailed deer, waterfowl, ravens, and much more.
Whether you’re in the market for a midsize pickup or a full-size truck, Wendle Ford has just the vehicle you need to get out and explore. Browse our new Ford inventory and contact our team to schedule a test drive today.
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